Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
Length 32-35cm

Widespread and familiar wetland bird in most parts of mainland Britain and Ireland. Often wary but in urban areas can become rather tame. Adult has brownish wings but otherwise mainly dark grey-black plumage. Has distinctive yellow-tipped red bill and frontal shield on head, white feathers on sides of undertail and white line along flanks. Legs and long toes yellowish. Juvenile has pale brown plumage. Swims with jerky movement and with tail flicking; in flight, shows dangling legs. Occurs on all sorts of freshwater habitats.